February 12, 2018
Chris Hall, who died on 28 December 2017, served and supported NAG for almost three decades – a unique contribution recognised by the award of an Honorary Fellowship in 2011, shortly after Chris retired as Bibliographical Services Librarian, City of London Libraries.
EC member (1993-2003), editor of Nag News (1995-6) and Secretary (1996-7), Chris was also a regular at NAG Conference, notching a record-breaking twenty-five consecutive appearances from 1987 to 2011 (missing only the first in 1986). From 2003 (and on into retirement) he worked on Taking Stock, as occasional contributor, meticulous proof-reader and member of the editorial board. The fount of all knowledge on NAG-related matters, Chris was a perceptive, witty observer of the ever-changing library and library supply scene, a generous, unflappable and unfailingly cheerful colleague, and a great companion whenever there was time to relax. Tales of Hall family adventures in the Amazon rainforest immediately spring to mind!
And Chris enjoyed working with NAG as much as we enjoyed working with him. ‘NAG has been a big part of my professional life … particularly, of course, for the ten years or so when I was on the EC,’ he wrote in 2011. ‘It began by introducing me to … the strange new world of library acquisitions and went on to give me the opportunity to be involved in all sorts of developments and initiatives which helped to make things interesting. And, of course, it has been great fun!’
Our deepest condolences go to Chris’s family and friends, particularly his wife Christine, daughter Katharine and son Richard.
After a private cremation, a service of thanksgiving will be held at 2.15pm on Monday 19 February at St Andrew’s Eaton, 41 Church Lane, Norwich NR4 6NW (map), followed by refreshments at the Holiday Inn, Ipswich Road, Norwich NR4 6EP. If planning to attend please contact Ivan Fisher Ltd, Norton House, 17 Park Drive, Hethersett, Norwich NR9 3EN / T: 01603 810022. Donations are also welcomed in Chris’s memory to the Brain Tumour Charity – online (here) or by cheque, c/o Ivan Fisher.
Dr Maggie Sumner
Past Chair and Honorary Fellow, National Acquisitions Group